Ford Recalling 1.3 Million Compact Focus Cars for Stall Risks

Late last week on Wednesday, Ford claimed that it is planning to recall almost 1.3 million compact cars because of an emissions system part that could cause the engines to stall.

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The recall applies to all Ford Focus compact cars that were sold between 2012 and 2018. However, only the 2.0L inline-4 engine is affected at this time. No future vehicles could be affected because Ford stopped making the Ford Focus in the United States after this model’s year.

The issue that’s requiring the recall is an emissions system purge valve canister. Ford claims in its government filings that it can stick open. The problem arises when the valve cannot close because it can cause a vacuum buildup in the system that could lead to stalling of the engine. Because of the intense and extreme pressure that can build up, the fuel tank may also become deformed.

You can tell if your vehicle is affected if you show any symptoms of a check-engine light appearing, your fuel gauge starting to become inaccurate or erratic, an engine stall, or a loss of engine power. If you have noticed these issues already and you haven’t received a letter in the mail yet, Ford recommends that owners of the affected Focus models keep their fuel tanks half-full or close to full until the recall goes into effect and your vehicle is repaired.

To fix the problem, Ford can install software updates to the vehicle’ internal computer system. This can help to ensure that the purge valve’s status is detected better. The dealers are also to inspect the purge valves and replace them when necessary. Affected owners should be notified by mid-December.